Keeping guns out of kindergarten

A state lawmaker is worried a loophole in current law could allow guns to be carried into some kindergarten classrooms.

State Representative Fred Clark (D-Baraboo) says things have changed in the 20 years since Wisconsin’s gun free school zone law was written. The law ban guns from being within 1,000 feet of buildings that house first through 12th grade classes, but makes no mention of kindergarten programs.

Clark says that creates a conflict with the way many districts are now offering kindergarten and early learning classes. Several districts are providing those courses in separate facilities away from the older grades.

The Baraboo Democrat says that could allow guns to be carried in to those school settings. He’s pushing a bill that would close the loophole by making sure buildings housing kindergartens are included in the law.

Critics of the bill worry it could create problems though, because of the distance requirements of gun free school zones. Many non-traditional kindergarten programs are housed in facilities such as retail storefronts, many of which allow concealed carry permit holders to enter. There are concerns permit holders could end up violating the law without even knowing they are doing so.